Despite facing mixed reviews, tough competition, and last-minute changes, the Jackson family movie “Michael” has emerged as the top-grossing biopic ever made. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film has raked in a remarkable $977 million at the global box office, surpassing the previous record set by “Oppenheimer” in 2025. Prior to this achievement, “Michael” had already outperformed “Bohemian Rhapsody” to become the highest-grossing musical biopic and Lionsgate Films’ most successful movie, overtaking “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.”
The storyline of “Michael” chronicles the life of pop icon Michael Jackson, portrayed in adulthood by his real-life nephew Jaafar Jackson, from his early days performing with the Jackson 5 to the peak of his career releasing iconic hits like “Billie Jean,” “Beat It,” and “Thriller.”
Notably, the film avoids delving into the allegations of child sexual abuse against Michael Jackson, who passed away in 2009. Director Antoine Fuqua had initially planned to address these accusations in the script, including a scene depicting a police search of Jackson during the 1993 Neverland ranch raid. However, due to legal agreements between the Jackson estate and accuser Jordan Chandler, these scenes were ultimately removed and reworked.
Critics and audience members have voiced concerns about the film’s portrayal of Jackson’s life, with some accusing “Michael” of glossing over crucial aspects to present a more favorable image. Despite the controversies, the movie has seen significant success at the box office, exceeding expectations and setting new records for the genre.
While the film has garnered praise for certain aspects, such as Jaafar Jackson’s performance, it has also faced criticism for its pacing and storytelling. Reviews have highlighted a simplistic narrative structure and a somewhat idealized depiction of the central character, similar to critiques leveled at other musical biopics like “Bohemian Rhapsody.”
Despite the mixed reception, “Michael” has resonated with audiences, leading to a substantial increase in streaming numbers for Michael Jackson’s music following the film’s release. The movie’s unexpected box office success has paved the way for potential sequels exploring other aspects of the late pop star’s life, hinting at more to come from director Antoine Fuqua and Lionsgate.
